Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (or GERD) is the rising (reflux) of gastric contents from the stomach into the esophagus.
Having GERD indicates incompetence of the lower esophageal sphincter. Long term GERD leads to esophagitis. This in turn may lead to the development of Barrett's esophagus, esophageal strictures, esophageal ulcers and possibly even to esophageal cancer.
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2 Diagnosis 3 Treatment |
The most prominent symptom of GERD is heartburn, the sensation of burning pain in the chest coming upward towards the mouth caused by reflux of acidic contents from the stomach to the esophagus.
Patients with GERD also tend to get waterbrash, the feeling of a sour taste at the back of their throats. This can sometimes happen even if the pain of heartburn is absent.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
A detailed history taking is vital to the diagnosis. Useful investigations may include barium swallow X-rays, esophageal manometry, esophageal pH monitoring and gastroscopy.Treatment